A Remarkable Journey to Alaska, British Columbia & Haida Gwaii

Arrive in Seattle this afternoon and embark National Geographic Sea Bird or National Geographic Sea Lion. (D)

Cruise amid the lush Gulf Islands in the Strait of Georgia—which runs between mainland British Columbia and Vancouver Island—and search for some of the many marine mammals that inhabit these waters. (B,L,D)

Visit the U’mista Cultural Centre in Alert Bay, where we’ll watch traditional First Nations performances and learn about the art and culture of the Kwakwaka’wakw people. (B,L,D)

Sail northward along steep and rugged coastline looking for whales, dolphins, bears, deer, and other wildlife. Go ashore to explore or kayak the remote bays and inlets. (B,L,D)

With very special permission, we explore the islands of Haida Gwaii, including the incredible Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve & Haida Heritage Site. We will be joined by a Haida interpreter for our days among the islands, wildlife, and cultural sites. In the Haida ancestral town of Old Massett, we are invited into the home of a local carver for a feast of traditional foods and dance. Meet Haida artists and see their workshops. Visit the Haida Heritage Center at Kay Llnagaay to learn about the incredible history of the Haida people and their renowned artwork, a spiritual endeavor. See the ancient totems at SGang Gwaay (Ninstints), and kayak and take Zodiacs around the incredibly biodiverse islands in Gwaii Haanas. (B,L,D)

With special permission from the U.S. Forest Service, explore the forested backwaters of Misty Fjords National Monument and the Tongass National Forest by kayak or Zodiac. Go ashore to visit the charming fishing village of Petersburg, and explore the surrounding area on a forest walk or enjoy an opportunity to stretch your legs with an optional bike ride around town. Cruise and kayak past the glacially carved cliffs of Tracy or Endicott Arm—both spectacular fjords that harbor orcas, humpback whales, and Steller sea lions. See the soaring Dawes or South Sawyer Glacier up close and take a Zodiac cruise for unparalleled views of sculpted iridescent icebergs. (B,L,D)

By special park permit, spend a full day among the enormous glaciers and expansive wilderness of Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. A national park ranger joins us to interpret the area geology and ecosystems, and a native Tlingit interpreter will share the lore and legend of the area. Then, spend a day kayaking and hiking among incredible wildlife around the Inian Islands and Chichagof Island. Conditions permitting, we’ll lower the ship’s hydrophone to listen for whale communications. Enjoy a farewell dinner on our final night. (B,L,D)

See the picturesque city of Sitka on Baranof Island and meet eagles up close at the Raptor Rehabilitation Center. (B)

See the picturesque city of Sitka on Baranof Island and meet eagles up close at the Raptor Rehabilitation Center. (D)

By special park permit, spend a full day among the enormous glaciers and expansive wilderness of Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. A national park ranger joins us to interpret the area geology and ecosystems, and a native Tlingit interpreter will share the lore and legend of the area. Then spend two days kayaking and hiking among incredible wildlife around the Inian Islands and Chichagof Island. Conditions permitting, we’ll lower the ship’s hydrophone to listen for whale communications. (B,L,D)

With special permission from the U.S. Forest Service, explore the forested backwaters of Misty Fjords National Monument and the Tongass National Forest by kayak or Zodiac. Go ashore to visit the charming fishing village of Petersburg, and explore the surrounding area on a forest walk or enjoy an opportunity to stretch your legs with an optional bike ride around town. Cruise and kayak past the glacially carved cliffs of Tracy or Endicott Arm—both spectacular fjords that harbor orcas, humpback whales, and Steller sea lions. See the soaring Dawes or South Sawyer Glacier up close and take a Zodiac cruise for unparalleled views of sculpted iridescent icebergs. (B,L,D)

With very special permission, we explore the islands of Haida Gwaii, including the incredible Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve & Haida Heritage Site. We will be joined by a Haida interpreter for our days among the islands, wildlife, and cultural sites. In the Haida ancestral town of Old Massett, we are invited into the home of a local carver for a feast of traditional foods and dance. Meet Haida artists and see their workshops. Visit the Haida Heritage Center at Kay Llnagaay to learn about the incredible history of the Haida people and their renowned artwork, a spiritual endeavor. See the ancient totems at SGang Gwaay (Ninstints), and kayak and take Zodiacs around the incredibly biodiverse islands in Gwaii Haanas. (B,L,D)

Sail southward along steep and rugged coastline looking for whales, dolphins, bears, deer, and other wildlife. Go ashore to explore or kayak the remote bays and inlets. (B,L,D)

Visit the U’mista Cultural Centre in Alert Bay, where we’ll watch traditional First Nations performances and learn about the art and culture of the Kwakwaka’wakw people. (B,L,D)

Cruise amid the lush Gulf Islands in the Strait of Georgia—which runs between mainland British Columbia and Vancouver Island—and search for some of the many marine mammals that inhabit these waters. (B,L,D)

Disembark in Seattle before transferring to the airport for flights home. (B)